Characterization

How an author shows or reveals the personality of a character:

• Metaphor

• Foreshadowing

• Characterization

• Cliff hanger

When an author TELLS you about a character

• Indirect characterization

• Direct characterization

When an author SHOWS you about a character

• Indirect Characterization

• Direct Characterization

Jeff was a mean boy.

• Direct characterization

• Indirect characterization

Jeff walked up to Mark and took his sandwich off of his plate. He took a bite, smirked at Mark, and then walked away.

• Direct characterization

• Indirect characterization

Clarissa was one of the nicest girl in school. She was always so pleasant, helpful, and patient with everyone!

• Direct characterization

• Indirect characterization

She rolled her eyes at her parents when they said she was grounded.

• Direct characterization

• Indirect characterization

“‘Jane is a cruel person,’ she said.’”

• Direct characterization

• Indirect characterization

“I looked in the mirror and saw how dark the circles under my green eyes had become.”

• Direct characterization

• Indirect characterization

“As Jane walked past the box labeled ‘Free Puppies,’ she furtively glanced around her, then gave the box a swift kick.”

• Direct characterization

• Indirect characterization